SMS: Windows 95 Client Reports BIOS Manufacturer Name as Unknown (189299)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Systems Management Server 1.2
This article was previously published under Q189299

SYMPTOMS

When Systems Management Server inventories a Windows 95 system, the BIOS manufacturer is usually reported. On some client computers, Systems Management Server reports the BIOS manufacturer as Unknown. Windows 95 will also report the BIOS manufacturer as Unknown, yet may be able to report the BIOS version number.

CAUSE

The Systems Management Server inventory agent (INVDOS) uses standard BIOS calls that are also used by Windows 95 and Microsoft Diagnostics (MSD) to obtain BIOS information. If Windows 95 or MSD is unable to report the BIOS manufacturer, Systems Management Server may also report Unknown for all BIOS fields, including the BIOS version number.

WORKAROUND

To collect the information, you can distribute a custom MIF, to be filled out manually by the end user.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Systems Management Server version 1.2. We are researching this problem and will post new information here in the Microsoft Knowledge Base as it becomes available.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:6/14/2005
Keywords:kbbug kbRemoteProg kbtshoot KB189299
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